Abstract
This report analyses the outcomes of Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP) inspections conducted on cruise ships in U.S. waters during 2025. It examines inspection scores, cited deficiencies, and point deductions to identify sector-wide public health trends.
Between 1 January and 31 December 2025, VSP inspectors carried out 272 inspections across 178 cruise ships. Scores ranged from 81 to 100, with an average of 95.9.
A total of 8,624 violations were recorded, averaging 31.7 per inspection. As in previous years, deficiencies were concentrated within a limited number of categories, with 69% (n=5,930) attributed to just 10 item numbers.
Critical violations accounted for 21% (n=1,806) of all citations but contributed 40% (n=446) of total points deducted. Only two vessels completed an inspection without a single critical violation.
While overall scores remain consistently high, inspection outcomes continue to be driven by a small number of recurring deficiencies. These are not isolated issues, but persistent gaps in control, oversight, and execution. Addressing them—particularly as standards evolve—offers the most direct opportunity to strengthen compliance and reduce public health risk.